My Biggest Strength Is Also My Biggest Weakness

“But this beautiful treasure is contained in us – cracked pots made of earth and clay – so that the transcendent character of this power will be clearly seen as coming from God and not from us. (2 Corinthians 4:7)

I am painfully aware of one of my weakest traits. What I find to be interesting is that I think that it is also one of my strongest, God given traits. As far back as I can remember I have been an extremely sensitive person. I think that God designed me this way and has used this sensitivity in some amazing ways. I need to show Him how grateful I am, and give Him all the glory for:

The times I am able to tune in to my children.

The ability to see them as individual – unique people.

The times I sense God telling me to put everything down and focus on those around me.

When I build relationships with others and am able to see ways that might serve them personally.

Being at the point where I can open the front door to whoever stops by unexpectedly and pull them in to whatever is happening in our home.

There is another side to this sensitivity that I have been given. I don’t like it very much, but it has caused me to desperately cling to God! Even though I would consider this one of my biggest weaknesses, I see that it is the very thing that God has used to bring me to my knees and rely on him. I am grateful for that.This sensitive heart that I have been given has been altered because of sin. Because of that fact I often:

Have a hard time adjusting to change.

Battle depression and anxiety at times.

Want to withdraw when someone hurts me.

Take the words of others too much to heart.

I can be way too trusting.

2 Corinthians 4:7 is a huge encouragement to me. It reminds me that God is bigger than anything that sin’s curse has messed up! How amazing is that!? He can use one of my biggest strengths but he can also use my biggest weakness. He can shine through it! He uses it to remind me of my desperate need of him, to humble me on a daily basis, and he chooses to work in and through me in spite of this ever-present, glaringly obvious weakness. Any good that others may see – in my strengths and in my weakness – is good that is from God alone.

I love this quote:

“This earthen vessel has the treasure of Jesus within it. His power can overcome my cracks. His light can shine forth. I can take joy in knowing my brokenness only magnifies the hope that is within me.” ~Stacey Thacker